Garfield Park Conservatory - Review

Spread across an area of 184 acres, the Garfield Park Conservatory was established in the 1880s. One of the largest conservatories in the nation, the Garfield Park Conservatory is made up of 8 display rooms and is often referred to as ‘landscape art under glass’. With thousands of plant species on display, this place makes for a serene visit and provides a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of Chicago city. Must visit sections within the conservatory include The Fern Room, the Palm House, the Show House and the Elizabeth Morse Genius Children’s Garden.

Garfield Park Conservatory, Chicago Reviews

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Garfield Park Conservatory Tour Reviews

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By Greg Hardigan

You just can't believe this place exists on Chicago's west side. Absolutely spectacular glass houses of plants from all over the world.
Towering palms, tiny zebra-striped thickets, orchids, cacti, grapefruit trees, hanging vines, koi and turtles in decorative pools, a massive outdoor lawn in back with a huge pond and bridge.
There's a kids room with a slide, play spaces and a giant oval to dig in. One hall changes the plants and decorations for each season.
But my favorite place is the Fern Room, which is humid, dense with ferns and moss, has waterfalls running through it, and looks like dinosaurs should be roaming around. Totally prehistoric, extremely relaxing. If I had that room at the back of my house, I'd never be stressed.
Free admission, lots of parking, and the Green Line goes straight to the front door. A great place to bring your family, especially when Arctic Chicago takes over.
You will mingle with people of all ages and backgrounds from around the city. Friendly co-existence is the way here. I wish folks could be as peaceful and respectful in the rest of the city as they are at the Conservatory. A total gem in a neighborhood that really deserves one.

By Catherinanguyen

It's a beautiful place! It's very spacious with a good variety of plants. I like the lay out of the place, including the outside sections they have. I like that they have a kids section, although we didn't have kids with us. I wish there were more information on individual plants and species as you walk along. Otherwise, great place to spend a couple of hours if you're into nature and botany.

By Karen Rodriguez

I haven't been here for a long time. It was absolutely beautiful. It was free but they do accept donations. I brought my sister in law who is visiting from Mexico. She loved it too. The employee's were very nice and helpful.

By Ray Morin

I have not been here since about the year 2000. This time we took our 3 grand kids on a perfect day and we all had a great time. It was very lush and well planned out. Free parking and admission. Outside walking paths around the grounds. A very nice afternoon for us.

By Nataki Ajamu

I got there 20minutes before they closed. Its my last day visiting Chicago and I am so so so glad that i chose to come here before catching my flight!! I love plants so i had a ball taking pictures and just being there for a minute. Just wish I had more time *insert crying face*. Donations are taken since its free admission to the public, which isbrrally nice. I've never been to Illinois and the Garfield Park Conservatory was the biggest selling point the city had to offer and for that, we thank you. Would love to visit Chicago again just to get the full non rushed experience of the Conservatory